2Way Vs. 3Way Puppy Shots

Puppies receive a series of vaccinations designed to protect them from a number of diseases that can cause illness or even death. Among these diseases are distemper, parvo and leptospirosis.

Two-Way Vaccines

A two-way puppy vaccine protects a puppy from two major illnesses: distemper and parvo. Both of these illnesses are extremely contagious and can cause severe illness and even death.

Three-Way Vaccines

Three-way puppy vaccines include both vaccines in the two-way vaccine but also includes leptospirosis. Leptospirosis, while generally not fatal, can cause serious illness in puppies.

Caution

The three-way vaccine carries a greater risk of causing a severe allergic reaction than the two way vaccine, so many veterinarians will opt to use the two way vaccine if the puppy will not have a large exposure to leptospirosis.

When to Use Two Way Vaccines

Small breed puppies that will not be spending lengths of time outdoors where they can be exposed to leptospirosis will generally be vaccinated with a two-way vaccine. This prevents the possibility of having an allergic reaction to the vaccine.

When to Use Three-Way Vaccines

Large breed dogs are almost always vaccinated with a three-way vaccine, as well as any dog that will spend a large quantity of time outdoors.

References

• Caber Feidh